September 17, 2024 | Manitoba

Derek Dollimount's journey from military veteran to pharmacy assistant is a testament to the power of perseverance, dedication, and a lifelong commitment to serving others. After retiring from the military after 25 years of active service, Derek found himself at a crossroads, unsure of his next career path. A chance encounter with CDI College led him to discover a passion for healthcare, marking the beginning of a transformative chapter in his life: He enrolled in the Pharmacy Assistant Diploma Program at CDI College Red Deer. 

Become a Pharmacy Assistant Student at CDI College 

Returning to school at 50 was a mix of anticipation and apprehension for him. Despite initial challenges with locating his high school transcripts, Derek effortlessly navigated CDI College's application process, thanks to its supportive staff. With his wife's support and a strong commitment, Derek started his studies, finding a passion for healthcare. His journey underscored that it's never too late to chase your dreams and thrive in a new academic setting. 

One of Derek’s most cherished memories at CDI College was meeting his classmates in person for the first time. After months of online interaction, it was exhilarating to finally connect with his peers and build a sense of camaraderie. He particularly enjoyed the hands-on experiences, such as compounding medications and practicing clinical skills. 

Derek attributes much of his success at CDI College to his instructor, Sahana, whose dedication and patience had a profound impact on him. Sahana had a remarkable ability to break down complex concepts and present them in ways that were accessible and engaging. “Sahana went above and beyond to ensure all of us students understood the material and often took extra time to offer additional explanations when needed. Her commitment to us students has not only made learning enjoyable but also boosted my confidence as I navigated my studies.” Derek said. 

Job Search as a Pharmacy Assistant Graduate from CDI College 

During the program, Derek completed his practicum at Shoppers Drug Mart, gaining real-world experience. Once he held his pharmacy assistant diploma, he knew what he wanted to do professionally. 

After successfully graduating from the CDI College Pharmacy Assistant Program, and with an even stronger determination to excel in this industry, Derek did not need long to find a job. He found a job as a Pharmacy Assistant at the Red Deer Hospital. He applied instantly when he saw the ad and Red Deer Hospital responded swiftly and invited him to an interview. With all the preparation CDI College provided him throughout his studies, he was able to nail the interview and land the job. 

This is just another reminder how CDI College gives everyone the opportunity of pursuing higher education and of starting their careers – independently of their age. CDI College provides everyone with support in their enrollment process, networking, practicum, and career training so that you can enter the job of your dreams.  

The transition from student to pharmacy assistant was not without its challenges. Derek had to adapt to a new environment, learn new equipment, and navigate the complexities of hospital procedures. However, his positive attitude and willingness to ask questions helped him overcome these obstacles. 

Why Become a Pharmacy Assistant at CDI College 

Derek's determination to succeed fueled his desire to give back to his community. He found immense satisfaction in helping others and making a difference in people's lives. “I actually look forward to going to work in the morning,” Derek says. 

His previous experience in the military had instilled in him a strong sense of service, which he carried over into his new career. “I have said that to my boss many times; it is not just the job, is the people, the work environment, and not so many people can say that about their job,” Derek continues. 

The skills and knowledge Derek acquired at CDI College were invaluable on his path to becoming a pharmacy assistant. He learned about medications, patient care, and equipment usage, all of which were essential for his daily tasks. CDI College's emphasis on attention to detail and accuracy was particularly important in a field where precision is paramount. Enrolling at CDI College’s Pharmacy Assistant Program was the best decision I have ever made,” Derek emphasizes. 

Derek's journey to pharmacy assistant is a testament to the power of resilience, determination, and a lifelong commitment to learning. His dedication to his craft, coupled with the valuable education he received at CDI College, has enabled him to make a meaningful contribution to the healthcare field. 

If you are ready to start your journey toward a rewarding career as a pharmacy assistant, consider enrolling in CDI College's program. The hands-on training, industry experience, and career support you receive will help you gain the skills and confidence needed to succeed in this exciting field.